Patients who are dissatisfied with the appearance of their smile can find optimal cosmetic dental enhancement with porcelain veneers. These cap-like shells cover the front of teeth to create a more uniform and brighter smile.
Veneers can last for fifteen years but require maintenance for the best aesthetic results. Dr. Drew Shulman, a dentist in Northeast Philadelphia, offers three tips for taking care of your porcelain veneers to ensure long-lasting cosmetic benefits.
Take Note of Your Bite
You may need some time to get used to the feeling of porcelain veneers over the front of your teeth. Your dentist constructs veneers with the unique size, shape, and color of your teeth, as well as your aesthetic goals, in mind.
They finish the cosmetic procedure by polishing your veneers for a natural look and secure fit. If you notice that your veneers are loose or misaligned once you leave the dentist’s office, contact your dental professional.
Avoid Biting Hard Items
Veneers are built to be durable and can withstand the wear and tear that your teeth experience on a daily basis. However, they can be subject to damage if exposed to abnormal amounts of pressure.
For this reason, you should avoid biting down on hard objects, including the end of a pen, ice, or fingernails. If you grind your teeth, your dentist might recommend that you wear a mouthguard overnight to protect teeth and veneers from the pressure this behavior can create as you sleep.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Your porcelain veneers get their stability from your teeth, so you should keep your teeth healthy to ensure your veneers have a solid foundation. You can do this by maintaining a good oral hygiene routine. This entails brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily.
Veneers do not stain but can gather plaque just like your natural teeth. This plaque can spread across your teeth and cause many dental problems that will negatively impact your cosmetic enhancement fixtures. If you keep up a proper oral hygiene regimen, you can keep your teeth strong enough to continue supporting your veneers.